The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about books and reading habits. One common topic is describing a book that made you laugh. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to express personal experiences, emotions, and opinions in English. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and maximize your score in the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you may encounter questions about your reading habits and preferences. Here are some common questions and sample answers:
- Do you enjoy reading books?
- What kind of books do you usually read?
- Have you read any funny books recently?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I’m quite an avid reader. I particularly enjoy contemporary fiction and humorous novels. Recently, I read a hilarious book called ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ by Douglas Adams. It’s a science fiction comedy that had me laughing out loud on several occasions.”
Describe a nature spot where you often go to relax can be another interesting topic you might encounter in the IELTS Speaking test. It’s always good to be prepared for a variety of subjects.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a book that made you laugh
You should say:
- What the book was
- When you read it
- What it was about
- And explain why it made you laugh
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a book called ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ by Helen Fielding. I read it last summer during my vacation. The book is about a single woman in her thirties living in London, trying to improve her life and find love.
The story follows Bridget’s daily life, her struggles with work, relationships, and self-improvement. What made me laugh was Bridget’s honest and often self-deprecating humor. Her awkward situations and witty observations about modern life were very relatable and funny.
I found myself chuckling at her failed attempts to stick to her New Year’s resolutions and her comical dating experiences. The author’s writing style is very engaging, and she has a talent for describing everyday situations in a humorous way.
Overall, the book made me laugh because it presented a light-hearted and realistic portrayal of the challenges many people face in their personal lives. It was a refreshing and entertaining read that I thoroughly enjoyed.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to discuss a satirical novel that had me in stitches – ‘Good Omens’ by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. I delved into this book about a year ago, and it proved to be an absolute riot.
The narrative revolves around an unlikely partnership between an angel and a demon who have grown rather fond of Earth and decide to thwart the impending apocalypse. What sets this book apart is its irreverent take on religious themes and its clever subversion of apocalyptic tropes.
The authors’ razor-sharp wit and masterful wordplay had me guffawing throughout. Their ability to juxtapose the mundane with the divine creates a delightful absurdity that’s both thought-provoking and hilarious. For instance, their portrayal of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse as a biker gang was utterly ingenious.
What truly made me laugh was the book’s sardonic commentary on human nature and bureaucracy. The deadpan humor and farcical situations the characters find themselves in are brilliantly crafted. Moreover, the footnotes sprinkled throughout the book add an extra layer of humor, often containing side-splitting asides and obscure references.
In essence, ‘Good Omens’ had me in fits of laughter due to its perfect blend of intelligent humor, astute observations, and sheer absurdity. It’s a book that not only entertains but also challenges conventional thinking, making it a truly memorable read.”
Follow-up questions:
- Do you think humor in books is universal?
- How do cultural differences affect what people find funny in literature?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While humor can transcend cultural boundaries, I believe it’s not entirely universal. Cultural nuances, linguistic wordplay, and social contexts often play a crucial role in what people find amusing. For instance, British humor tends to be more subtle and self-deprecating, while American humor might be more direct and slapstick.
Cultural differences can significantly impact the reception of humorous literature. Satirical works that resonate strongly in one culture might fall flat in another due to differing social norms, historical contexts, or even linguistic barriers. Idiomatic expressions and cultural references, which are often the backbone of humor, can be lost in translation.
However, I think there are some universal elements of humor, such as situational comedy or character-driven humor, that can be appreciated across cultures. The key is in the execution and relatability of the content. A skilled author can create humor that bridges cultural divides by focusing on shared human experiences and emotions.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Let’s talk more about humor in literature. Do you think funny books are as valuable as serious literature?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe funny books can be just as valuable as serious literature. They serve different purposes, but both have their merits. Humorous books can provide entertainment and stress relief, which is important for mental health. They can also tackle serious issues in a more approachable way, making complex topics more digestible for readers.
Serious literature, on the other hand, often delves deeper into human nature and societal issues. It can challenge our thinking and broaden our perspectives. However, I think the best books often combine elements of both humor and seriousness, reflecting the complexity of real life.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d argue that humorous literature is equally valuable as serious works, albeit in different ways. Well-crafted comedic writing requires immense skill and can be just as thought-provoking and culturally significant as more somber texts.
Satirical works, for instance, have a long history of challenging social norms and criticizing power structures through humor. Think of authors like Jonathan Swift or Kurt Vonnegut, whose biting wit served as a vehicle for profound social commentary.
Moreover, humor in literature often serves as a coping mechanism, allowing readers to process difficult topics or traumatic experiences in a more manageable way. It can provide catharsis and foster empathy by presenting familiar struggles in a relatable, lighthearted manner.
That said, I believe the dichotomy between ‘funny’ and ‘serious’ literature is somewhat artificial. Many great works of literature seamlessly blend humor and gravity, reflecting the complex tapestry of human experience. The ability to evoke both laughter and profound thought is, in my opinion, a hallmark of truly exceptional writing.”
Describe a movie character who you think resembles you is another interesting topic that could come up in the IELTS Speaking test, allowing you to showcase your ability to draw parallels between fiction and real life.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Satirical (adj.) /səˈtɪrɪkəl/ – using humor to criticize people’s stupidity or vices
Example: “The book offers a satirical view of modern politics.” -
Guffaw (v.) /ɡəˈfɔː/ – laugh loudly and heartily
Example: “I couldn’t help but guffaw at the protagonist’s ridiculous antics.” -
Irreverent (adj.) /ɪˈrevərənt/ – showing a lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously
Example: “The author’s irreverent take on historical figures was both refreshing and amusing.” -
Juxtapose (v.) /ˈdʒʌkstəpəʊz/ – place or deal with close together for contrasting effect
Example: “The writer skillfully juxtaposes tragedy and comedy throughout the novel.” -
Sardonic (adj.) /sɑːˈdɒnɪk/ – grimly mocking or cynical
Example: “His sardonic humor often masks a deeper criticism of society.”
Examiner’s Advice
To score highly in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing books that made you laugh:
- Use a variety of descriptive language to express humor and emotions.
- Provide specific examples from the book to illustrate your points.
- Discuss not just what made you laugh, but why it was funny to you.
- Connect the book’s humor to broader themes or social commentary if possible.
- Practice speaking about different types of books and genres to be prepared for any question.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about having good ideas, but also about expressing them fluently and coherently. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you improve your speaking skills and confidence.
Describe an old friend you reconnected with could be another interesting topic to practice, as it allows you to demonstrate your ability to narrate past events and express emotions.